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- Tasks: Lead Back of House operations, ensuring safety and efficiency in a fast-paced airport environment.
- Company: Join DHL, the world leader in logistics, at Luton Airport.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension scheme, flexible working, and 24/7 GP consultations.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aviation logistics while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in operations, with a focus on safety and performance.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for career growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
Pay Rate: £50,000 up to £55,000 depending on experience
Grade: RCS K
Contract Type: Permanent (Full-Time)
Shift patterns: Monday to Friday (Will need to be flexible for earlies and lates)
Location: Luton Airport, Luton
PLEASE NOTE: The role is based within an airport. You will be required to undergo a security/background check if you are to be successful for this position.
A TYPICAL DAY MAY INVOLVE:
- Provide overall leadership for all Back of House (BOH) operations, including ramp, Turnaround Operations, Dock (baggage handling) and pushback, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-performing service delivery.
- Champion a strong health and safety culture, ensuring full regulatory compliance and embedding safe systems of work across all operational areas.
- Lead and develop a workforce of 200+ colleagues and operational managers, fostering accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement.
- Attending customer meetings, represent DHL at stakeholder meetings, setting strategic direction and driving efficiencies and operational excellence.
- Drive performance through effective people management, engagement initiatives, and robust attendance and absence control.
- Partner with senior stakeholders to deliver operational change, optimise resources, and support key business objectives.
THIS ROLE WOULD SUIT PEOPLE WHO:
- Proven senior operations leader delivering high performance in complex, fast-paced environments.
- Confident, visible leader able to inspire large, multisite teams and set clear direction.
- Change-driven and improvement-focused, with a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence.
- Inclusive people leader experienced in managing managers, driving engagement, performance, and wellbeing.
- Calm, resilient decision maker in high-pressure operational settings.
- Proud brand ambassador with a strong focus on safety, teamwork, and customer service.
- Aviation experience desirable but not essential.
- Full UK manual driving licence essential.
SECURITY PROCESS TO WORK WITHIN AVIATION AND TRAVEL AT DHL:
- To obtain a full airside ID, you must:
- Be able to provide five years' address history
- Be able to provide five years' reference history (employment/education/benefit claim/character)
- Pass a pre-employment Drug and Alcohol test
WHY JOIN US?
- We’re happy to talk about flexible working - just ask about alternative patterns at interview
- Join our generous pension scheme and benefit from an 8% employer contribution, alongside a 4% employee contribution
- Free confidential 24/7 GP consultations
- Hundreds of retail and lifestyle discounts
- Affordable loans, savings schemes and free mortgage advice
WHO WE ARE:
We’re the global leaders in supply chain management with 188,000 people in over 50 countries. Our expert teams work together to deliver for our customers across a range of industries including retail, automotive, healthcare and more.
BUILDING AN INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE:
At DHL, we’re all about creating a workplace where everyone’s skills and experiences matter, and where you can be your true self every day. As proud supporters of the Armed Forces Covenant, we value the skills and experience of ex-service personnel and are dedicated to helping our veterans find jobs.
Please be aware that interviews are provisionally scheduled to take place during the week commencing Monday 9th February 2026. Applications received after this date may not be considered but will be added to our talent pool for future opportunities, subject to your consent. Please also be aware that we review applications continuously and where we have a large number of applications the application period may close ahead of the provisional interview date. To ensure your application is considered we recommend submitting it as early as possible.
Head of Department (Back of House) employer: DHL Supply Chain
Contact Detail:
DHL Supply Chain Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Department (Back of House)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at DHL through LinkedIn or industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching DHL's operations and values. Show us that you understand our mission in aviation logistics and how you can contribute to our success. Tailor your examples to highlight your leadership and operational excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around safety and team management. We want to see how you handle high-pressure situations and inspire large teams. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the DHL family. Get your application in early to stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Department (Back of House)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Department role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant operational achievements that align with our mission at DHL. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about aviation logistics and how your background makes you the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to mention your commitment to safety and operational excellence.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, give us a glimpse of your leadership style. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and engage a large team, so share examples of how you've successfully managed teams in fast-paced environments.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We review applications continuously, and applying early gives you a better chance of being considered. Head over to our website and get your application in as soon as you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at DHL Supply Chain
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into DHL's operations, especially in the Back of House area. Familiarise yourself with their safety protocols and operational excellence strategies. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Department, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead large teams. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed teams, driven engagement, and implemented change. Be ready to discuss how you foster accountability and continuous improvement.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making in high-pressure situations. Think about times when you've had to make tough calls or manage crises. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Emphasise Safety and Compliance
Given the nature of the role, it's crucial to highlight your commitment to health and safety. Prepare to discuss how you've championed safety cultures in previous roles and how you ensure compliance with regulations. This will resonate well with DHL's focus on operational excellence.
